Root canals have a bad reputation for being painful, but many of the rumors you might have heard are untrue. Root canals are pain free, but you may still hesitate to schedule your procedure. Whether you’re concerned about pain, don’t want to deal with the expense, or have another concern, delaying the procedure will open the door to many preventable complications. Here are the risks you’ll face if you put off root canal therapy.
Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal is recommended to save an infected tooth from dying and needing to be removed. When bacteria reach the pulp, the innermost layer of a tooth, a root canal is the only solution to treat it. It involves extracting the pulp and cleaning out the root chambers to restore its health.
Risks of Delaying Root Canal Therapy
Although a root canal can save your tooth, you might consider delaying the procedure. However, the longer you wait, the more likely you will experience new complications, like:
- Worsening Pain: Your toothache will not improve without treatment. If your pain subsides suddenly, your tooth has died and will need to be extracted.
- The Infection Can Spread: The infection can spread to surrounding teeth and structures. It may also enter your bloodstream, which can have potentially life-threatening risks.
- Jawbone Deterioration: Every tooth is important. Losing even one tooth can cause your jaw to shrink by 25% within the first year. It will continue to deteriorate as time passes, affecting your dental health and facial structures.
- Dental Problems: As your bone shrinks, you’ll have an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss.
- Tooth Replacement: If your tooth must be removed, you’ll need to invest in a prosthetic to fill the space, which can get costly over time.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Don’t worry if you have some concerns about the road ahead. Your dentist will explain everything during your consultation and answer any questions. Your comfort will be their top priority from start to finish. You won’t have to worry about a painful day in the dentist’s chair. You can restore your dental health and ward off tooth loss by investing in root canal therapy.
About Dr. William Ross
Dr. Ross achieved his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and has regularly continued his education to provide the most up-to-date services. He has over 3 decades of experience in the dental field. Dr. Ross is affiliated with many professional organizations, like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (803) 675-7179.